A well-priced tent with a reasonably low weight for its price, the Jack Wolfskin Gossamer is an inner-pitched-first design with a front entrance. The tunnel design is quite low, making this tent particularly stable in the wind. The flysheet is made from polyester with a PU coating. The main feature it lacks is a large porch area, though, which is a significant drawback. 4/5

Design

Two alloy poles are fitted through sleeves that extend around the inner tent with alloy pegs slotting into their ends. The fly then rests over the top with pegging points provided by elastic cords, rather than ladder-lock webbing adjustments. The outer door rolls to the side where it can be secured easily, but unlike other tents this doesn’t expose a large porch. 4/5

Living space

The front door allows entry to the Jack Wolfskin Gossamer but as there is no porch you will need to either leave gear outside or bring it into the inner tent, which is not ideal in the rain. The inner tent is 70cm high, which is not enough to allow sitting up, with a length of 220cm and a width of 90cm. 3/5

In use

The weight of 1685g is tolerable but the packed size is a little large at 45x14cm. The Jack Wolfskin Gossamer easy to erect but is pitched inner-first, which isn’t ideal in wet weather. The inner is mostly mesh as well, so it’s a little draughty. The main drawback however is the lack of a large porch. I’d like to be able to open the outer door from the top too. 3/5

Value

The price is appealing but other tents around this price do have other benefits such as a porch or less weight. 4/5

Verdict

If your budget is £100 then the Jack Wolfskin Gossamer is one to consider, but its lack of a porch is a real drawback compared to others. 3.6/5